Durg test before a job

[Ashish Pagare]

Hi Friends,
I want to know more about the Drug Test, which is used by some companies before recruitment.
Recently one comapny asked me to go thru this test before confirming the job.
I am curious to know more since this will bemy first time to go thru this test (currently I work for an Indian firm and at the time of joining I presented a doctor certificate to my company at the time of joining).
Thanks,
Ashish

[Mark Herschberg]

Here in the US drug tests are common at larger firms (and especially those in the defense industry). At some point you get a call and have X amount of time (30 days?) to schedule a test at a local test center (or maybe doctor's office). It's usually just a urine sample. The sample is tested for common drugs like cocaine, pot, LSD, etc. Job offers are typically conditional on you passing the test.
A friend of mine, actually got a job offer at his dream company during his senior year in college. For spring break he went to Amsterdam and smoked pot (which is legal there). Then he came back and found he had to do a drug test. He spent the next month "purifying" himself by any means he could find. It was quite funny watching him during this period. (He ended up passing the test and taking the job.)
--Mark

[Rufus BugleWeed]

I presented a doctor certificate to my company at the time of joining

Does this mean in India ( I suppose you're in India ) that you have to pass some sort of physical examination before you can get a job? That's the way it used to be in the US. But the practice has since been outlawed and discriminatory.

[Ashish Pagare]

The doctor's certificate is also optional. Its mandated by only very few companies. As per my understanding most of the companies doesn't bother for any medical check.
My experience is 5 years back so may be someone else can correct if my understanding is not up to date.
Thanks for the details Mark.
Regards,
Ashish

[frank davis]

Originally posted by Rufus BugleWeed:

That's the way it used to be in the US. But the practice has since been outlawed and discriminatory.

I just gave a urine sample last week for a local county job prior to being offered the position. I don't think its ilegal.

[Rufus BugleWeed]

They did not make you turn your head and cough did they?

[Manish Hatwalne]

Medical test from a Doctor/Hospital specified by the company is compulsory in India for bigger companies, since they take care of employee's medical insurance.
- Manish